Car accidents are unfortunately far too common on Virginia’s busy roads and highways, and the aftermath can be devastating. Many victims experience major injuries that result in extensive medical treatment and high medical costs. Victims may be unable to work, causing financial difficulties. All this is in addition to the high physical and mental anguish suffered by victims and their families.
In the immediate aftermath of a car accident, you may be in shock. Remembering these tips may help make the situation less traumatizing and help with moving forward.
Be ready for an accident
Preparing for an accident before one occurs is an important step. Always drive with your driver’s license and insurance information. Keep a pen and paper in your car and have a camera available.
If you are involved in an accident, survey the scene and check for injuries. Call 911 for anyone who has been injured, but do not try to move or help them yourself. When possible, move vehicles off the road and to a safe place. Alert other drivers to the accident by putting hazard lights on or items in the road to block off the impacted vehicles.
Call the police and take plenty of pictures
Police must be called for every accident, no matter how minor the accident initially appears. File a police report and ask for a copy of it as soon as possible after the accident. Obtain information about the other driver, including their name, contact information and insurance information.
Since cameras are so readily available today, take pictures of the other driver’s license and insurance information, as well as pictures of all vehicles involved in the accident, at various angles, to document the full extent of any damage.
A car accident is terrifying to go through but staying calm and taking things one step at a time will help you get through the situation. After the accident, you may consider filing a personal injury claim for compensation for any damages.